The 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season kicked off this weekend with intense matches and thrilling moments across stadiums. Fans were treated to action-packed games featuring stunning performances and unexpected turns.
One of the most talked-about matches took place at Inter Miami's home ground, where the team faced New York City FC. The game ended with a dramatic 2-2 draw, showcasing the skill of Lionel Messi, who assisted both of Miami's goals. Miami, now under the leadership of Javier Mascherano and dealing with recent squad changes, faced early challenges. The match saw Tomas Aviles sent off with a red card early on, leaving Miami with just ten men. Despite this setback, Messi's play remained pivotal.
The early stage of the match looked promising for Miami when Messi's corner kick found Jordi Alba, who then played it back to him. Messi's assist helped Aviles secure the opening goal just five minutes in. But things took a turn for the worse when Fafa Picault injured himself, and Miami began to falter defensively.
NYCFC quickly took advantage of their numerical edge. They equalized with Mitja Ilenic finding the net after receiving from Maxi Moralez's free-kick. City's confidence surged, and when Adrian Martinez scored to put them ahead 2-1, it seemed Miami might falter completely. Yet, the resilience displayed by Miami was commendable.
Just as it looked like NYCFC would claim victory, Miami's Telasco Segovia made sure they would split the points with his equalizer during extended stoppage time. Coach Mascherano expressed pride, stating, “We have to keep overcoming the obstacles we encounter along the way, but I’m one of those who focus on the positives.”
Not far from Miami, the weekend's opening match took place in Los Angeles, where LAFC managed to shut out Minnesota United 1-0. The only goal of the match came from Jeremy Ebobisse, who scored the season's first goal with his left foot just shy of full time. Reflecting on his performance, he noted, “When you look at the roster...goals can come from different places.”
Atlanta United also had their fair share of excitement as they hosted the Montreal Impact. Atlanta won 3-2 after exchanging leads throughout the game. Emmanuel Lath opened the scoreline before Montreal leveled the match. A mix of skillful plays on both sides kept fans on the edge of their seats, with Edwin Mosquera eventually sealing the victory for Atlanta. Coach Ronny Deila noted the team's need for improvement but was pleased with their initial performance.
Meanwhile, elsewhere, the Columbus Crew had a thrilling comeback against the Chicago Fire, winning 4-2 after initially falling behind. Jacen Russell-Rowe equalized shortly after Gutierrez put Chicago up early, and Diego Rossi's two goals after the break sealed the deal. Columbus has set their expectations high this season, and their performance on opening day showcased their potential.
DC United's match against Toronto FC ended 2-2, with both teams trading leads. Toronto’s coach, Robin Fraser, described the game’s evolution as their players grew more comfortable, indicating room for improvement going forward.
FC Cincinnati also claimed victory with Kevin Denkey's goal leading them to defeat the New York Red Bulls 1-0. Cincinnati showed solid defense throughout the match, with standout performances from their defenders.
Philadelphia Union faced off against Orlando City, overcoming early struggles to secure a 4-2 victory. Coach Oscar Pareja from Orlando expressed concern following their defensive lapse, stating it was not reflective of their capabilities.
Austin FC welcomed Sporting Kansas City to Q2 Stadium, where Austin emerged victorious with Osman's 76th-minute header. The defeat continued Sporting’s struggles against Austin, marking their fifth consecutive loss at this venue. Head coach Peter Vermes expressed disappointment but acknowledged the need to rebound quickly.
Not every match ended with clear results, as Nashville SC battled the New England Revolution to a frustrating 0-0 draw. With both teams fielding newcomers, the match showed the growing pains of integrating fresh talent.
The opening weekend of the MLS has set the stage for what looks to be another exciting season. With standout performances from notable players, surprising outcomes, and promising new talent on display, fans can look forward to more dramatic moments as teams settle in and aim for playoff positions. Upcoming matches will continue to shape the narrative of this early season as teams reflect on their opening performances.